Killer bug fears for third Briton

Another suspected victim of a new and deadly pneumonia virus is fighting for his life today in the Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead.

The patient, a man from London who had just flown in from the Far East, is thought to be the third Briton in the last week to contract Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome.

The illness has claimed 14 lives and made more than 200 people seriously ill around the world.

The first cases were reported in south China and Vietnam last month but outbreaks have since been reported across south-east Asia and even Canada as infected victims travelled abroad.

The man arrived at Heathrow from Taiwan on Monday after a one-hour stop in Hong Kong.

Tests are now being carried out to see if he is suffering from the deadly bug, while the airline on which he travelled, Cathay Pacific, has been notified of his condition.

Today passengers who shared flight CX251 with the man were told to look out for symptoms including high fever, heavy coughing and shortness of breath.

On Monday, a 64-year businessman, believed to be the first in the UK to suffer from the virus, was admitted to the infectious diseases unit at North Manchester General Hospital. His condition is said to be improving.